Eduction Secretary Nicky Morgan put on the spot by Wakefield teachers

The Secretary of State for Education Nicky Morgan at Outwood Grange Academy to talk to teachers from local schools.

Published:18:00Sunday 14 December 2014

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Teachers were given the chance to quiz Education Secretary Nicky Morgan when she visited Outwood Grange Academy.

Mrs Morgan, who is also Minister for Women and Equalities, was put on the spot by more than 100 school leaders at the event last Friday.

Mrs Morgan, appointed Education Secretary in July, was asked by one teacher if she had to judge the Department for Education (DfE) using the Ofsted grades, what grade would she give.

She responded by saying ‘good with outstanding features’ which caused a ripple of laughter around the room.

The Loughborough MP also came under fire about her controversial comments in national newspapers advising children to opt for science subjects instead of arts.

But she said her comments had been taken out of context and she fully supported art in the curriculum but believed young people needed to keep their options open.

Her visit, organised by Outwood Institute of Education, was part of a tour of schools around the country. After the event she told the Express that education had the power to transform lives.

She said: “Education is an investment in this country’s future.

“Teachers and myself have a responsibility to inspire children to be the best they can be.

“We need to ensure they are getting the guidance they need so they choose the relevant subjects to keep their career options open.”

Julie Slater, Outwood Institute of Education’s chief executive, said: “The session was very well received by colleagues.

“The Education Secretary answered all questions posed and came across very positively.

“She was very personable and is obviously on a mission to build bridges with the teaching profession. Feedback from the audience was very good and many colleagues reflected on the way she had tackled some challenging questions without skirting any issues.”